How to Train a Dachshund to Track Deer

When you see a Dachshund, your first thought may be of a cute little weiner dog, curled up in a easy chair, but Dachshunds are actually hunting dogs as they're considered "hounds". Hounds have been bred for generations to aid humans in hunting and are excellent scenting dogs. The area of a Dachshund’s brain dedicated to processing smell is forty times the size of a human's!

 The reason your Dachshund is short-legged and long-bodied is not so he can look great dressed as a hot dog at Halloween. It is because he was bred to hunt pests and follow animals into their burrows. This means that not only are they great at scanning and tracking prey, but they have a strong prey drive! Although not originally bred to track deer, they are very active and can be used to successfully track an injured deer that has holed up in heavy brush. In fact, the low, long Dachshund's physique may be an asset, as he can easily maneuver through thick brush where a wounded deer may be hiding.

Dachshunds have a powerful sense of smell and can become very focused when they get on a scent trail. The problem is that they can easily be distracted by a competing scent. Directing your Dachshund to be focused on tracking deer will be the challenge. You can accomplish this by introducing deer scent and reinforcing it by pairing the scent with food. Dachshunds are notorious foodies and high value treats are always a good motivator.

You will want your Dachshund to signal you when he locates a deer trail or a downed deer, so training your dog to speak on command and then associating this behavior with locating a deer will be useful when hunting. Other deer tracking dogs can be very helpful in training, as the best way to learn is by example. However, remember that independent little Dachshunds are still prone to going their own way, so you will need to supervise and direct your dog, even when working with another experienced deer tracking dog. 

Deer hunting involves getting your Dachshund used to the sights and sounds of a gun being fired. Although not built for speed or long distance, you will want to make sure your dog is in good shape. He should be familiar with working in rough terrain so as to avoid injury to joints, back, and muscles. Be aware of your dog's limitations. Many hunters use tracking collars when they are working with their hunting dogs loose in the wilderness. This may be an especially good idea for an independant little Dachshund who may choose to go his own way when hunting off leash. Dachshunds can use some motivation, so food to reinforce desired behavior is a good idea during training.